Garden Tip 223

There are three similar-looking vines to be aware of in the summer garden: Virginia Creeper, poison ivy, and English Ivy. Virginia creeper has five-pointed leaflets radiating from a central point, poison ivy has three, and English Ivy has a leaf with five points, making them all look very similar.

I find that poison ivy often has the uncanny ability to be present wherever Virginia creeper and English Ivy are found, almost as if it is using them as camouflage. Always proceed with caution when working around these plants, for we all know how troublesome poison ivy can be. Virginia creeper and English Ivy can be problematic as well.

Virginia creeper is native to eastern and central North America, and therefore cannot be labeled as invasive. It is labeled as highly aggressive, however. Stems root whenever they touch the soil and birds disperse the many seeds found on the plant. Its growth is extremely rapid, and plants can reach heights of 100 feet or more. I find this plant popping up everywhere in my garden.

And then there is English Ivy. Although it is still sometimes sold as a ground cover plant in our area, it is classified as invasive in other parts of the country, where its evergreen growth can overtake native species. It is also an aggressive grower and can be a problem in New England gardens. Once established, its mat-like habit can prevent the growth of other plants; it can spread into unintended areas, and it is almost impossible to eradicate.  As mentioned, it does make a great ground cover, but its growth and spread need to be kept in check. Keep an eye on the vine, and your garden will be fine.